Sony WH-1000XM4 vs Sony WH-1000XM5
The Verdict
Both Sony flagships deliver exceptional noise cancellation and 30-hour battery life, making them elite choices for frequent travelers. The XM4 ($349) includes LDAC hi-res audio, aptX HD support, and Dual Noise Sensor technology that actively monitors ambient sound in real-time for superior ANC precision. Its 10-minute quick charge provides 5 hours of playback, useful in a pinch. The XM5 ($399.99) improves the formula with faster 3-minute quick charging that yields 3 hours of listening, slightly lighter construction at 250g versus 254g, carbon fiber composite drivers for refined treble, and Bluetooth 5.2 for more stable connectivity. The XM5 drops aptX HD codec support, keeping only LDAC and basic codecs, which matters less for most users since LDAC handles hi-res streaming adequately. Sound quality differences are minimal in real-world listening. For $50 less, the XM4 offers better codec flexibility and proven Dual Noise Sensor reliability that many prefer over the XM5's newer implementation. Choose the XM5 if you prioritize quick-charge convenience and marginally refined highs, otherwise the XM4 provides superior value without meaningful compromises.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM4 if…
- →Class-leading active noise cancellation that blocks almost all ambient sound
- →LDAC support delivers hi-res wireless audio quality
- →Exceptional 30-hour battery life with fast charging
Buy the Sony WH-1000XM5 if…
- →Class-leading active noise cancellation
- →Excellent call quality with beamforming mics
- →Lightweight, comfortable for long sessions
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Sony WH-1000XM4
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation that blocks almost all ambient sound
- LDAC support delivers hi-res wireless audio quality
- Exceptional 30-hour battery life with fast charging
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
- Comfortable over-ear fit with plush earcups for long sessions
Cons
- Plastic build feels less premium than rivals at the same price
- Touch controls can be accidentally triggered
- No IP rating — avoid using in rain or at the gym
- Microphone quality is average for calls
Sony WH-1000XM5
Pros
- Class-leading active noise cancellation
- Excellent call quality with beamforming mics
- Lightweight, comfortable for long sessions
- LDAC hi-res Bluetooth support
Cons
- No longer folds flat for travel
- No IP rating against sweat or rain
- Expensive at launch
- Mediocre wired/USB audio quality
Full Specifications
| Spec | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Sony WH-1000XM5 |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 254 g | 250 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 30 hrs (ANC on) | 30 hours ANC on |
| Charging | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 5 hrs playback | USB-C, 3 min = 3 hours quick charge |
| Drivers | 30 mm | 30mm dynamic carbon fiber composite |
| Features | Industry-leading ANC with Dual Noise Sensor technology, LDAC hi-res wireless audio, Speak-to-Chat auto-pause, Adaptive Sound Control, DSEE Extreme upscaling, Multipoint Bluetooth pairing, Wearing detection | Industry-leading ANC, Speak-to-Chat, Adaptive Sound Control, Multipoint pairing, DSEE Extreme upscaling |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, LDAC |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
Want to compare a third product?
Add another product for a 3-way comparison.
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in headphones, see all Sony products or all Sony products. View full details for the Sony WH-1000XM4 or the Sony WH-1000XM5.